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Man who shot Dutch film-maker says he would kill again for Islam

Toby Sterling
Wednesday 13 July 2005 00:00 BST
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Mohammed Bouyeri, 27, an Islamist, faces possible life imprisonment for stabbing and shooting Mr van Gogh on 2 November last year. He did not mount a defence. "I did it out of conviction," he said. "If I ever get free, I would do it again."

At one point he turned in his chair and spoke to Anneke Van Gogh, the victim's mother, who was in the public gallery. "I don't feel your pain," he said. "I don't have any sympathy for you. I can't feel for you because I think you're a non-believer."

Bouiyeri, who is accused of terrorism and other offences, spoke slowly in Dutch with a Moroccan accent. He glanced down at notes, paused between sentences, and chose his words carefully. "Maybe you could find some consolation if the maximum sentence is given," he said. He also addressed police who he fired upon eight months ago: "I shot to kill and to be killed. You cannot understand."

Prosecutors are seeking a life sentence. A verdict is expected on 26 July.

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